Cedar Rapids, IA – December 2023 Jobs Report – Stability Amidst National Fluctuations

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The December 2023 Cedar Rapids job market maintained relative stability despite national economic uncertainties. While the unemployment rate dipped slightly compared to November, overall job growth slowed. Key industries continued their steady performance, but some sectors experienced minor contractions.

Highlights:

  • Unemployment rate: Decreased to 3.1%, the lowest since February 2022, remaining lower than both state and national levels. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
  • Job growth: Modest increase of 0.8% compared to December 2022, lagging behind the national average of 1.8%. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
  • Key industries: Manufacturing held steady, while Trade, Transportation, and Utilities saw slight growth. Information and Financial Activities remained stable. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Industries and Occupations on the Rise:

  • Manufacturing: Continued its upward trend, adding 300 jobs year-over-year. Food processing and bioproducts remained strong drivers. (Source: Iowa State University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences)
  • Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: Gained 500 jobs compared to December 2022, primarily in transportation and warehousing. The sector is projected for further growth in 2024. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
  • Healthcare: Demand for healthcare professionals remained consistent, with occupations like Registered Nurses and Home Health Aides showing steady growth. (Source: Zippia)

Industries and Occupations Facing Downturns:

  • Construction: Shed 50 jobs compared to December 2022, potentially due to seasonal fluctuations. Long-term outlook remains positive. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
  • Information: Remained stable but did not experience the growth seen in previous months. Job postings for software developers continue, indicating potential for future expansion. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Compared to Same Month Last Year:

  • Unemployment rate: Decreased by 0.5 percentage points from December 2022, reflecting a tighter labor market.
  • Job growth: Lagged behind December 2022’s 1.5% increase, suggesting a moderation in hiring activity.

Compared to Previous Month:

  • Unemployment rate: Decreased slightly from November 2023’s 3.3%.
  • Job growth: Remained nearly flat compared to November 2023.

Future Outlook:

The Cedar Rapids job market is expected to maintain its stability in 2024. Manufacturing, Trade, Transportation, and Utilities, and Healthcare are projected to continue adding jobs. The bioprocessing industry holds promise for sustained growth, attracting talent and investment. However, national economic trends and potential interest rate hikes could impact the pace of expansion.

10 Growing Occupations in Cedar Rapids (Source: Zippia):

  1. Registered Nurse
  2. Software Developer
  3. Truck Driver
  4. Customer Service Representative
  5. Marketing Specialist
  6. Financial Advisor
  7. Physical Therapist
  8. Accountant
  9. Sales Representative
  10. Web Developer

10 Companies Hiring Now in Cedar Rapids (Source: Indeed):

  1. Rockwell Collins
  2. Mercy Medical Center
  3. UnitedHealthcare
  4. Quaker Oats Company
  5. Cedar Rapids Community School District
  6. Linn County
  7. Kemin Industries
  8. Van Meter Inc.
  9. Cargill Meat Solutions
  10. ADM

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